While winter offers a wonderland of exciting activities, icy roads present a significant hazard. For decades, snow tire chains have been a reliable solution to boost traction on slippery surfaces. At mercedesbenzxentrysoftwaresubscription.store, as automotive repair experts, we understand the importance of vehicle safety, especially during harsh winter conditions. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to help you navigate the world of snow tire chains and choose the Best Snow Tire Chains for your needs in 2025.
Our team of experts, based in mountainous regions known for challenging winters, has rigorously tested numerous tire chains over years of firsthand experience. We’ve installed, used, and assessed various models, learning what works best in real-world winter driving scenarios. This hands-on experience allows us to provide informed recommendations, ensuring you can confidently select the right chains for your vehicle and winter adventures.
Whether you’re planning a ski trip or simply need to navigate snowy commutes, investing in the best snow tire chains is a proactive step towards safe winter driving. Remember to always check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling in winter. In many areas, carrying tire chains is mandatory during snowstorms, and highway patrols will enforce this rule. Prioritizing safety is paramount, and equipping your vehicle with quality snow chains is an excellent way to enhance your winter driving preparedness.
Editor’s Note: For 2025, we’ve updated our top pick to the Peerless Auto-Trac Tire Chains as the best overall snow tire chains. Their ease of installation and compatibility with a wide range of vehicles make them a standout choice.
Top Snow Tire Chains of 2025: Reviews & Recommendations
Navigating snowy and icy roads demands reliable traction. Our expert testing has identified the leading snow tire chains of 2025, catering to various vehicle types and driving needs. Below are our top recommendations for the best snow tire chains, each offering unique benefits to enhance your winter driving experience.
Best Overall Snow Tire Chains
Peerless Auto-Trac Tire Chains
- Type: Chain
- Tension Adjuster: Yes, Auto-adjusting
- Weight: 8.5 lbs.
Pros:
- User-friendly and effective design
- Affordable price point
- Smooth ride quality on snow-covered roads
- Relatively easy installation compared to traditional chain systems
Cons:
- Chain thickness could be improved for enhanced traction
The Peerless Auto-Trac Tire Chains stand out as the best overall snow tire chains due to their exceptional balance of ease of use, effectiveness, and value. In our extensive testing, they proved to be the simplest to install, maintain, and store, making them ideal for a wide range of drivers, particularly those with smaller vehicles or limited wheel well clearance.
For drivers who encounter occasional winter travel or mountain driving, the Auto-Tracs are an excellent choice. While there are options that may offer slightly superior traction in extreme conditions, their user-friendliness and overall durability make them a dependable option for anyone needing chains throughout the winter season.
The design incorporates a circular cable frame that maintains the chain’s shape, preventing tangling during storage – a common frustration with traditional chains. This pre-shaped design significantly simplifies the installation process.
To install the Peerless Auto-Tracs, simply position the frame behind the tire and drape the chains over the tread. Connecting the frame behind the tire is the only slightly challenging step. Then, secure the two fasteners and engage the auto-tensioning latches. The chains automatically tighten against the tire, preventing slapping against the wheel wells while driving.
In our timed installation test, the initial setup took just over 4 minutes. We recommend a quick stop to readjust and retighten the chains after driving a short distance, as they may shift slightly. After this initial adjustment, they remain securely in place for extended use.
The only potential drawback we identified is the durability of the auto-tighteners. The plastic latch mechanism that releases the tensioner might be a point of concern over long-term exposure to moisture, salt, gravel, and extreme temperatures. However, one of our testers has used these chains on a Sprinter van for five winters, including frequent trips to snowy Mammoth Mountain, and the Peerless Auto-Trac chains are still functioning reliably.
If you need a dependable set of chains for your car or light truck, the Peerless Auto-Trac chains are a top recommendation. Properly stored in a dry environment, they should last for many winter seasons, saving you time and hassle during installation and getting you to your destination safely.
Best Budget Snow Tire Chains
König CB-12 Tire Chains
- Type: Chain
- Tension Adjuster: Yes
- Weight: 7.89 lbs.
Pros:
- Simple, effective, and time-tested design
- Highly affordable
- Provides a smooth ride on snow
- Generally easy to install for traditional chain systems
Cons:
- May not be the most durable option for very frequent use
- Tire size matching online can be slightly challenging
For drivers seeking a straightforward and cost-effective solution, the König CB-12 tire chains are the best budget snow tire chains. These chains prioritize functionality and affordability without unnecessary frills. König chains are a popular choice among mountain drivers due to their proven reliability in challenging winter conditions.
The König CB-12’s simple yet robust design ensures they are capable of handling snowy climates. Their traditional chain pattern provides effective traction while maintaining a relatively smooth ride on snow and minimizing noise on paved surfaces.
Installation is straightforward, similar to the Peerless Auto-Tracs, without requiring you to jack up your vehicle. The manual tensioning system is effective and easy to master. A thoughtful addition is the included kneeling mat, providing comfort during installation in cold, snowy conditions.
While offering excellent value and performance, the König CB-12 chains do not meet Class S clearance requirements, meaning they may not be suitable for vehicles with limited wheel well space. It’s important to check your vehicle’s specifications to ensure compatibility.
Best Snow Chains for Low Clearance Vehicles
Security Chain Company SZ143 Cable Tire Chains
- Type: Cable
- Tension Adjuster: Yes
- Weight: 1 lb.
Pros:
- Very low profile, suitable for tight wheel wells
- Relatively easy to install
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than some chain options
- Installation can be slightly fiddly with small components in cold weather
- Potential for slippage if not properly installed
For vehicles with limited wheel well clearance, the Security Chain Company SZ143 Cable Tire Chains are the best snow chains for low clearance vehicles. Their cable design offers a significantly lower profile compared to traditional chains, making them compatible with cars like the Toyota Prius C, which are notoriously challenging to fit with chains.
The SZ143 cables are relatively easy to install, and their simple construction with few moving parts enhances reliability in freezing temperatures. The crisscrossing cable pattern provides decent tire coverage for effective traction.
We tested these cables on a Toyota Prius C, a vehicle known for its tight wheel wells. Installation took approximately 7 minutes. The SZ143 features three attachment points, allowing you to slip them under the tire and connect them, which is particularly helpful when starting from a standstill on snow or ice.
Positioning the cables for all three fasteners to connect can be a bit tricky initially, especially in snowy conditions where you may need to clear snow around the wheel. Gloves are highly recommended for installation.
Once positioned, six clips attached to a robust rubber band secure the cables. This band provided sufficient tension during our tests, even on steeper inclines and short stretches of pavement.
While not quite as effortless to install as the Peerless Auto-Tracs, the SZ143 cables are a reliable low-profile option. The rubber band requires some effort to stretch and secure, which might be challenging for some individuals, especially in cold or tiring conditions. Practicing installation in dry, warm conditions is always recommended for any type of tire chain.
Best Snow Tire Chains for Trucks
Security Chain Company QG2228CAM Quik Grip Tire Chains
- Type: Chain
- Tension Adjuster: No
- Weight: 6.5 lbs.
Pros:
- Highly durable construction
- Relatively easy installation for heavy-duty chains
- Effective traction on various surfaces
Cons:
- May rust more quickly than some other chains
- Does not meet SAE Class S clearance requirements
The Security Chain Company QG2228CAM Quik Grip Tire Chains are our top pick for the best snow tire chains for trucks. Security Chain Company is renowned for its extensive range of high-quality snow chains, and the Quik Grip model is specifically engineered for the demands of trucks and SUVs.
The QG2228CAM Quik Grip chains are built to withstand the weight and power of 4×4 trucks. Featuring long-wearing square link cross chains made from manganese alloy steel, these chains offer maximum durability and reliable grip on virtually any surface. They are available in multiple sizes to fit a wide range of truck tires.
Installation is simplified by the built-in CAM tightening system, eliminating the need for separate tensioners. While the initial installation might require a bit of familiarization, clear step-by-step instructions are included to guide you through the process. Users generally find these chains relatively easy to install for their robust construction.
Low-Profile Cable Snow Chains Option
Glacier Chains Tire Cables
- Type: Steel Rollers
- Tension Adjuster: No
- Weight: Approximately 1 lb.
Pros:
- Quick and easy installation
- Lightweight and compact for storage
- Excellent for vehicles with minimal wheel well clearance
Cons:
- Provides less traction than heavier chain options
- Not designed for long-distance or heavy-duty use
The Glacier Chains Tire Cables offer a low-profile alternative to traditional snow chains. Instead of bulky chain links, they utilize hardened steel rollers, resulting in a thinner profile ideal for passenger cars with limited wheel well space.
Despite their minimalist design, Glacier Chains tire cables provide adequate performance and meet state requirements for tire traction devices. Their low-profile construction also minimizes the risk of damage to your vehicle and potential warranty issues.
These tire cables are significantly lighter and more packable than conventional chains, making them convenient for storage. While not recommended for heavy-duty or prolonged use, they are a practical and convenient option for passenger vehicles in moderate snow conditions.
Alternative Traction Device: Snow Socks
ISSE Shark Snow Sock
- Type: Polyolefin Fabric
- Tension Adjuster: Self-tensioning
- Weight: 2.25 lbs.
Pros:
- A good alternative for drivers seeking to avoid traditional chains
- Exceptionally easy to install
- Suitable for roads completely covered in snow
- Legal workaround in areas where traditional chains are prohibited
Cons:
- More expensive than some chain options
- Less durable than metal chains
- Shortened lifespan if driven on asphalt
The ISSE Shark Snow Sock represents a newer approach to tire traction, offering a fabric-based alternative to traditional snow chains. For drivers seeking to avoid the potential hassles of metal chains, snow socks provide a convenient and user-friendly option.
Snow Socks address common concerns associated with chains, such as tangling, installation complexity, and ride noise. The ISSE Shark Snow Sock is made from a polyolefin fabric that covers the entire tire. Like chains, they are designed for speeds up to 30 mph.
Installation is remarkably easy – simply slip the sock over the tire. The flexible fabric and low-profile design ensure compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, from small cars to large trucks. Once installed, snow socks eliminate the rumble and vibration typically associated with chains. Being fabric-based, they also pose no risk of vehicle damage, a concern with some chain types.
While Snow Socks may not appear as robust as chains, they offer excellent traction in snowy conditions. In areas where traditional snow chains are prohibited, the ISSE Shark Snow Socks provide a legal and effective alternative for enhanced traction. However, it’s important to note that their lifespan is significantly reduced when driven on asphalt, and they are generally less durable than metal chains for prolonged or heavy-duty use.
Snow Tire Chains Comparison Chart
| Chains | Price | Type | Tension Adjuster | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peerless Auto-Trac | $59-145 | Chain | Yes, Auto Adjusting | 8.5 lbs. |
| König CB-12 | $99-110 | Chain | Yes | 7.89 lbs. |
| Security Chain Company SZ143 | $51-212 | Cable | Yes | 1 lb. |
| Security Chain Company QG2228CAM Quik Grip | $111-135 | Chain | No | 6.5 lbs. |
| Glacier Chains Tire Cables | $59-67 | Cable | No | 1 lb. |
| ISSE Shark Snow Sock | $74-100 | Polyolefin Fabric | No, Self-tensioning | 2.25 lbs. |
Cable chains are often more affordable but may be more challenging to install. (Photo: Chris D 2006)
How We Test Snow Tire Chains
Installing snow chains can be a cold and frustrating experience. Imagine fumbling with metal clasps in slush puddles with freezing fingers, perhaps with impatient passengers in the car. Our experienced testers understand this scenario all too well, and our rigorous testing process aims to identify chains that minimize these difficulties.
Our Expert Testers
Matt Bento, our lead tester, has spent over a decade living and working in the High Sierra region, enduring numerous slushy winters in locations like Yosemite Valley and Mammoth Lakes. His daily commutes and work in these environments have provided extensive experience with winter driving and the necessity of tire chains.
During his time working in Yosemite National Park, where chain control is strictly enforced, Matt installed and removed chains daily, navigating varying road conditions from bare pavement to ice-covered roads. He has assisted countless motorists with chain installation, gaining firsthand knowledge of nearly every make and model of tire traction device. This extensive experience forms the foundation of our expert evaluations.
Our timed installation tests revealed the Peerless Auto Trac chains to be exceptionally quick to install right out of the box. (Photo: Matt Bento)
Our Testing Locations
We conduct our snow tire chain testing during the winter months in California’s Eastern Sierra. Our testers frequently travel Highway 395, encountering diverse winter conditions and chain control requirements between Tahoe and Lone Pine.
The varying elevations and weather patterns in this region provide ample opportunities to install and remove chains in real-world driving scenarios, often multiple times per trip. We evaluate traction and braking performance in stop-and-go traffic in busy ski resort towns, and accumulate approximately 50 miles of driving on each set of chains throughout a winter season – sufficient mileage to identify any durability concerns.
Our objective is to identify the best snow tire chains that combine effective performance, proper fit, vehicle compatibility (including clearance), and ease of installation and removal. Secondary factors include durability and value. Our recommendations encompass a range of options for diverse vehicles and driver needs. As new and innovative models emerge, we will continue to test and update our list to ensure it always reflects the best options available.
For those facing consistently challenging winter conditions, consider investing in dedicated snow tires. While snow tires don’t offer the extreme traction of chains, they provide significantly better performance and safety than all-season tires in snow and ice. Refer to our guide to the best snow tires for more information. If you’re new to winter driving, we also recommend reviewing our winter driving tips.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Snow Tire Chains
Selecting the best snow tire chains for your specific needs is crucial for safe winter driving. Like any specialized gear, understanding the key features and differences between models is essential. Choosing the wrong chains can compromise safety and even damage your vehicle.
When evaluating different snow chain options, consider these important factors:
Tension Adjustment and Self-Tensioning
Many modern, premium snow chains incorporate self-tensioning mechanisms to simplify installation and optimize performance. These systems automatically adjust chain tension as the vehicle moves, using built-in ratchets to maintain proper tightness.
Self-tensioning eliminates excess slack, which enhances traction and overall chain effectiveness on snow and ice. If you anticipate frequent chain use and regular installation/removal, self-tensioning chains are a worthwhile investment. The Peerless Auto-Trac is an excellent example of a self-tensioning chain system.
Assisted and manual tensioning chains are also available, often at a more affordable price point. These chains are typically easier to initially install, allowing you to loosely attach them, drive a short distance, and then manually retighten them. This two-step process may require an extra stop but can simplify the initial wrestling match with the chains.
Proper tensioning is essential for chain performance and to prevent vehicle damage.
Automatic Release
Some premium tire chains feature an automatic release mechanism. This feature can be particularly beneficial for drivers who frequently encounter changing snow conditions or travel long distances requiring chain use.
Automatic release systems significantly reduce the time and effort required to remove chains, especially in cold and potentially hazardous roadside conditions.
Sizing
Regardless of the chain style, purchasing the correct size is paramount. Proper sizing ensures correct fit and optimal performance.
Tire size information is readily available on your tire sidewall, typically displayed as a combination of numbers and letters indicating tire width, aspect ratio, and wheel diameter.
When selecting chains, simply match your tire size to the manufacturer’s size guide for the specific chain model. All of the recommended chains in our guide are available in a wide range of sizes.
Self-tensioning systems often allow tension adjustments without reaching behind the tire. (Photo: Tom Reynolds)
Material
Snow chain technology has advanced over the years, with innovations in materials and construction. While traditional materials remain in use, newer alloys and designs are also available.
High-end metal chains typically utilize manganese, titanium, and nickel steel alloys for superior strength and durability. For heavy-duty vehicles like trucks, chains made from these robust materials are recommended. Mid-range and budget chains generally use hardened steel.
Metal chains generally provide superior traction compared to alternative materials but can also be more aggressive on roads and potentially cause vehicle damage if improperly used. To address these concerns, rubber chains and snow socks have emerged. While potentially less effective in extreme conditions, they are gentler on vehicles and road surfaces.
Weight
Snow chains vary in weight, influencing both performance and handling. Lighter chains offer adequate traction, potentially better fuel economy, and are easier to install, remove, and store.
Heavier chains typically provide enhanced traction and durability but can negatively impact fuel economy and are more cumbersome to handle and store.
Considering that chain use is typically limited to relatively short distances at lower speeds, fuel economy is generally a secondary concern. If you anticipate infrequent chain use, or primarily need them as a precautionary measure, lighter chains may suffice. However, safety should always be the top priority, and choosing chains appropriate for your vehicle and driving conditions is crucial.
Practice installing your chains in favorable conditions to minimize roadside struggles. (Photo: George Wesley & Bonita D)
Price & Value
While basic, inexpensive chain sets are available, investing in a quality set of snow chains in the $90-$150 range will provide significantly better performance and durability, lasting for multiple seasons. Higher-priced chains often include features like auto-tensioning and generally offer easier installation.
Lower-cost chains may require more effort during installation, but with practice and proper sizing, they can be effectively used in winter conditions. Prices typically vary based on size, with larger sizes being more expensive.
Budget Options
The König CB-12 tire chains ($99-110 for smaller sizes) offer excellent value, providing effective traction superior to basic cable chains. Installation requires laying them out and driving onto them, which is easier on a snow-free surface. The tensioning system is user-friendly but manual, requiring potential readjustment after initial driving.
A limitation of the König CB-12 is that they do not meet Class S requirements, necessitating sufficient wheel well clearance.
For vehicles with limited clearance, such as some Tesla or Mini Cooper models, Glacier Chains Tire Cables ($59-67) are a suitable budget-friendly option. While traction is reduced compared to heavier chains, their low profile minimizes the risk of vehicle damage. Durability is less than robust chains, so they are not recommended for extended or frequent use, and regular inspection for damage is advised.
Premium Options
Snow chain sets priced above $125 often incorporate features and durability designed for demanding mountain conditions and frequent use. For drivers in mountain regions, these chains are essential, particularly for smaller cars and SUVs. Combined with four-wheel drive, premium chains can provide exceptional winter driving capability.
For trucks and high-clearance vehicles, the Security Chain Company QG2228CAM Quik Grip Model ($111-135) is a recommended premium choice. These heavy-duty chains offer maximum traction and durability. Installation is slightly more involved, but they lack tensioners that can break or be lost, and proper storage ensures longevity.
For sedans, sports cars, light trucks, and SUVs requiring Class S compliant chains, the Security Chain Company’s SZ143 Cable Tire Chain ($51-212) is our top premium recommendation. They offer improved durability over basic cable chains while maintaining ease of installation and minimizing vehicle damage risk.
Low clearance vehicles often present challenges for snow chain installation. (Photo: Matt Bento)
How to Install Snow Chains: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing snow chains effectively is a skill that improves with practice. While specific installation steps vary slightly between brands and models, a general approach applies to most chains. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions included with your specific chain set.
Practice Makes Perfect
Prior to winter driving, practice installing your snow chains in dry and comfortable conditions. This practice will significantly reduce frustration when you need to install them in a blizzard on the side of the road. Familiarity with the process is invaluable.
When preparing your vehicle for winter, assemble a winter emergency kit to store alongside your chains. Essential items include gloves, a warm coat, a headlamp, and a kneeling pad.
Basic Installation Steps
When conditions necessitate chain use, safely pull your vehicle to the roadside, away from traffic. Engage your hazard lights and ensure you are wearing warm layers.
For front-wheel-drive vehicles, install chains on the front tires. For rear-wheel-drive vehicles, install them on the rear tires. For all-wheel-drive or 4WD vehicles, front tire installation is generally recommended, but consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Unpack and untangle the chains, and begin draping them around the tire, connecting the designated attachment points according to the instructions. Repeat for the other tire.
Once attached, slowly drive forward 10-20 feet to allow the chains to settle. If you have manual tensioning chains, stop and retighten them to eliminate slack. Ensure the chains are securely and correctly installed before proceeding slowly onto the road.
Some noise and vibration are normal with chain use. However, stop immediately if you hear loud noises or experience strong jolts, which may indicate loose chains hitting the wheel well. Safely pull over and readjust the chains.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snow Tire Chains
What type of snow chains are best?
The “best” snow chains are subjective and depend on individual needs and driving conditions. Factors like material, link pattern, weight, style, and price influence the optimal choice.
For frequent use in challenging conditions, invest in higher-end, heavy-duty chains. For occasional emergency use, a more budget-friendly option may suffice. Each type of snow chain has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
What is better than snow chains?
Alternatives to snow chains include tire straps and snow socks. Tire straps are easy-to-use traction devices that strap onto tires, offering flexibility and suitability for cars and smaller vehicles in snow, mud, sand, or rocky terrain.
Snow socks are another alternative, preventing vehicle damage and offering simpler installation with quieter operation. They are recommended for short-term, low-speed use.
Are snow chains or snow socks better?
Snow socks are a viable alternative in certain situations, but generally, snow chains provide superior traction. Snow socks are less durable and wear down faster than metal chains.
However, snow socks are advantageous for drivers who don’t regularly encounter severe winter conditions. Furthermore, some vehicle manufacturers advise against using snow chains on certain models due to clearance issues, making snow socks a suitable alternative for these vehicles. While offering less traction than chains, snow socks are preferable to no traction devices in such cases.
Can snow chains damage my car?
Snow chains have the potential to damage vehicles if improperly used. However, they are designed to minimize this risk. Damage typically results from improper installation or driving habits.
Incorrectly sized chains can damage wheel wells. Loose chains can damage the underbody. Always ensure chains are properly sized and tightly installed.
Adhere to speed recommendations (usually 30 mph or less). Exceeding speed limits or driving aggressively on bare pavement can damage chains and vehicles. When properly installed and used according to instructions, snow chains should not cause damage. If concerned, snow socks offer a damage-free alternative.
Do you need snow chains on all four tires?
For all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles, using snow chains on all four tires is recommended for optimal traction and control. For front-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive vehicles, chains on the drive axle wheels are sufficient, but installing them on all four tires enhances safety and control. Uneven traction can lead to oversteer (FWD) or understeer (RWD).
Can snow chains be used in the mud?
While designed for snow and ice, snow chains can also improve traction in mud. Chains enhance friction when tire treads become clogged with snow, ice, or mud. Some snow chains perform better in mud than others, and manufacturers may indicate mud-specific effectiveness.
Winter driving requires preparation and caution. Snow tires and snow chains are valuable tools for navigating challenging conditions safely. While snow tires are a significant investment, snow chains are a practical and essential addition to your winter driving preparedness.
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